Overview

• The Cyberspace Administration of China has held up multiple AI applications co-developed by Apple and Alibaba, citing increasing political uncertainties between the United States and China.
• Chinese regulations force Apple to integrate locally developed AI models, prompting its partnership with Alibaba rather than using its own technology.
• Competitors Huawei and Xiaomi have already released AI-enhanced smartphone features, widening Apple’s disadvantage in the lucrative Chinese market.
• President Donald Trump’s recent tariff increases and reciprocal accusations of trade agreement violations have escalated tensions and complicated regulatory scrutiny.
• Rumors of an iOS 18.6 launch for Apple Intelligence in China remain uncertain as approval timelines continue to slip.